A 1934 Shanghai B&W movie describing the travails of a young prostitute working to send her child through school. Generally considered a classic of pre-war Chinese films. The most famous role of film star Ruan Lingyu. Silent with English intertitles.


This movie is part of the collection: Feature Films

Director: Wu Yonggang
Production Company: United Photoplay Service
Audio/Visual: sound, color
Language: Silent with English intertitles
Keywords: Chinese B&W silent Shanghai prostitute

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Reviewer: lauraalittle - - June 11, 2010
Subject: Universal Themes
Deeply moving -- this film provides a look at life in Shanghai, yet the setting could as easily be Chicago or New Orleans. "The Goddess" is beautifully acted, and I would recommend it to anyone. Be prepared, however, to provide your own music. I think Faure's slower orchestral pieces are a good complement to the general mood.

Reviewer: bearpuf - - August 30, 2008
Subject: Emotions Conveyed
It's always been pretty amazing to me how some silent movies (especially Chaplin) could convey a marvelous storyline and depth of emotion without sound. This film is of that variety with the mother fully pulling heartstrings through the entire view.